Abstract: 

Humans evolved to tell stories. In fact, we evolved to rely on story for our most important learning. Some argue story was more important for the survival of the species than opposable thumbs.

In this half-day workshop, learn how to take a step back from your data and think like a storyteller. Learn some key ideas and techniques to turn your numbers into a narrative - to make a compelling story that will have an impact on your audience. We will cover practical, actionable ideas that will make your next effort at communicating with data much more powerful.

You will learn about:
- Focusing your ideas on what’s really important for your audience and sharing your point of view on the data
- Outlining a story that flows in a logical sequential way, which is what people expect of story
- Creating a visual expression of data that is accessible and allows your audience to find meaning in your data

And while this is a workshop and you will work (including several hands-on exercises), you will also be entertained. The talk is full of interesting insights, some historical examples, and plenty of humor and entertainment as well.

This workshop is being offered by Bill Shander, LinkedIn Learning’s expert on data storytelling and visualization. Bill teaches full-day versions of this workshop for clients around the world, including Starbucks, the International Monetary Fund, various US Government agencies, and other world-wide brands, NGOs, universities, and governments. Bill puts all of his 25 years of experience on the table for this workshop.

Bio: 

Bill is an information designer, helping clients turn their data into compelling visual and often interactive experiences. Project and workshop clients include the World Bank, United Nations, International Monetary Fund, Starbucks, American Express, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Facebook, and the City of Boston. He is the founder of Beehive Media, a Boston-based data visualization and information design consultancy. Bill teaches data storytelling, information design and data visualization on LinkedIn Learning & Lynda.com and in workshops around the world. Bill has a new keynote talk about how you can wield outsider attributes to wield influence beyond your role within your organization. Ask him about it!